Stephen Tulloch: Comfortable, focused

This week I spent a few minutes with Titans linebacker Stephen Tulloch.

I know your football idol is Ray Lewis. Other than Lewis, whose game film do you like to watch?

“In the pros, I’ve got to say Adrian Wilson of the Arizona Cardinals. I think he’s a beast at the position. Not only can he cover, but he’s physical at the line of scrimmage, the point of attack. Not just because he’s an N.C. State grad (like Tulloch), but because of the way he plays. For the years he’s been in the league (ninth season) he’s been a tenacious, Pro Bowl-caliber player. Very fundamentally sound player.”

Do you feel more comfortable in passing situations? You’re becoming more active on passing downs.

“I’m comfortable man. I know the defense. I know it like the back of my hand. I’m comfortable, focused, just all around. I really feel like my game has come together as a linebacker in this league. I do have more growing to do as a player — I’m only 24 — but I’ve grown from my first year being here. It’s unbelievable how my first year to where I’m at now, how much I’ve learned. I can play on third downs. I can play on first and second downs. I feel like my game has really come together.”

Tell me something about your game that has vastly improved since last season, your first as a starter.

“I’m comfortable, knowing I’m the guy at the position. “

That plays a big part in your play?

“Big part. When I first came in Week 4, Week 5 of last season, I wasn’t sure if I was the guy permanently or with a one-game situation. This season, coming in knowing I’m the guy and knowing I’m a leader in terms of making calls, making checks from the linebacker position, I’m in tune now. Comfortable. Like I said, I can play any down. I love contact. I fill on the holes and want to keep this defense Top 10 against the run. That’s my goal. So far, we’ve done a good job of that.”